Vietnam, Canada Elevate Ties to Strategic Partnership, Seeking New Indo-Pacific Order

Vietnam and Canada have elevated their bilateral relationship to a Strategic Partnership during a state visit by Vietnamese President To Lam to Ottawa. This marks the first time a General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam has visited the country, signaling a new phase of development for bilateral ties. In a joint statement, both nations described themselves as "trusted partners" committed to mutual respect for political systems, independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. They agreed that conditions are met for a new stage of development characterized by higher political trust, broader cooperation, and more intertwined interests. This upgrade reflects their shared status as "middle powers" navigating a global order increasingly strained by economic protectionism and geopolitical competition, recognizing that prosperity depends on rules-based international economic engagements. The new Strategic Partnership will focus on eight key pillars: bilateral, regional, and multilateral cooperation; trade and investment; transport and infrastructure; digital technologies and artificial intelligence; energy security; food security; defense and security; and education, culture, and people-to-people ties. These pillars are intended to help Canada and Vietnam address shared challenges, seize emerging opportunities, and contribute to a more secure, prosperous, and dynamic Indo-Pacific region. For Canada, the elevation of ties with Vietnam aligns with its recent engagement in Asia. Vietnam, pursuing an "omnidirectional foreign policy," sees the enhanced relationship as a valuable complement to its strategy of maintaining good relations with key partners. Under President To Lam's leadership, Vietnam has established Strategic Partnerships with several other nations, including the Czech Republic, Finland, Bulgaria, and Belarus. Bilateral trade between Vietnam and Canada has grown significantly, projected to reach $20.6 billion in 2025. Vietnam is Canada's largest trading partner in ASEAN, while Canada ranks as Vietnam's ninth-largest overall trading partner. Both countries are also members of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP).